Raphael (1483-1520), The Engagement of the Virgin (1504), oil on panel, 170 x 117 cm, Pinacoteca di Brera, Milano Raffaello Sanzio, Spozalizio della Vergine.
A high priest clasps the hand of both Mary and Joseph as Joseph prepares to place the ring on Mary’s finger. Behind Joseph stands a crowd of disappointed suitors. The one standing next to Joseph breaks his wand over his knee in resignation. The rod that Joseph holds has burst into flower, and the rods of the other suitors haven’t.
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